Grand Jury's Probe Into House Leadership Office Drags On

The recent release of subpoenas served last fall was a reminder that the federal grand jury investigation into what is loosely called the Donovan scandal is still percolating under the surface. Indeed, it's taken a new and troubling turn in its search for government corruption.

Investigators must follow the evidence, of course. Rooting out government corruption is essential. However, what seems to be a lumbering inquiry should be thorough but completed with dispatch. It's been nearly a year since the case went public with a bang. Lives and careers are on hold — as is the reputation of the General Assembly, thus suspending public trust.

It was in late May last year that Robert Braddock Jr., the finance director of then-state House Speaker Chris Donovan's campaign for Congress, was arrested in connection with a scheme to kill a bill in the state legislature that would have imposed a tax on roll-your-own tobacco shops.

The skids were greased with fraudulent contributions to the Donovan campaign, but the tax ultimately was approved.

Subsequently, seven more union, political or roll-your-own business figures would be indicted — including Josh Nassi, the manager of Mr. Donovan's campaign.

Mr. Donovan, who denies any knowledge of the scheme, has not been charged. Although he had once been the favorite in the race, he lost the Democratic primary to Elizabeth Esty, who now represents the 5th Congressional District.

The subpoenas served by federal prosecutors in October and November on current and former staff members of the state House Democratic leadership office have troubling implications. Obtained by The Courant through a freedom of information request, they suggest a widening of the federal investigation into the use of tens of millions of dollars of state bond money.

This casts a long, dark shadow over the legislature as an institution as well as the individuals being investigated.